The Vision Council announced the revision of the ANSI/ISEA Z87.1 American National Standard for Occupational and Educational Personal Eye and Face Protection Devices. Industrial, educational, and healthcare settings utilize this guideline for protective eyewear.
The updated ANSI/ISEA Z87.1‑2025 standard outlines new and refined criteria for testing, selection, care, and more related to eye and face protectors. These guidelines help prevent on‑the‑job injuries from hazards such as impact, splash exposure, and non‑ionizing radiation. This standard is codified by the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). It ensures that employers provide workers with safety eyewear that conforms to industry standards.
“These updates are the result of a comprehensive five-year revision process,” said Michael Vitale, vice president of Membership, Government Relations & Technical Affairs at The Vision Council. “The Vision Council is proud to have worked alongside industry experts to revise these standards to emphasize product performance and to support innovation and responsiveness to diverse workplace hazards.”
New Eye and Face Protection Selection Tool
Alongside the updated standard, the Z87 committee created an Eye and Face Protection Selection Tool. This downloadable guide helps users identify and select available types of eye and face protectors, their capabilities, and limitations for certain hazards.
Key Updates in the Revision
Significant updates to this version of the document include:
- A cross‑reference to ANSI/ISEA Z87.62‑2021, addressing protection against sprays or spurts of blood and other potentially infectious materials.
- Expanded clarification of product markings, with new guidance for prescription lens carriers and detailed examples.
- Updated language related to impact testing, lens haze, and minimum coverage to promote consistent testing.
- Retention of relaxed optics and anti‑fog marking criteria for applications like first response and military use.
- Editorial and organizational improvements that streamline hazard‑specific sections.
The revised ANSI/ISEA Z87.1‑2025 standard is available for purchase through the International Safety Equipment Association, and the Selection Tool can be downloaded free of charge. The Vision Council members can also access an Overview Guide.